African journalists have agreed on a set of shared priorities aimed at strengthening climate justice reporting, promoting a just transition and safeguarding information integrity, following a three-day workshop held in Nairobi.
The meeting, convened by the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), brought together journalist leaders and trade union representatives from across the continent under the theme “Strengthening the Capacity of Journalists and Their Unions for the Effective Realisation of Just Transition in Africa.” The workshop was supported by Mondiaal FNV.
Participants examined how climate change is transforming African economies and societies, and discussed the critical role of journalism in serving the public interest during this period of transition.
Early discussions focused on the meaning of just transition in the African context, with emphasis on its impact on jobs, livelihoods, food security and public health.
The workshop noted that inadequate or unclear media coverage of climate policies weakens public accountability and silences communities most affected by climate change.
Journalists agreed that clear, accurate and accessible reporting is essential to enable informed public participation and protect vulnerable workers.
Addressing the gathering virtually, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications Melissa Fleming highlighted the vital role of professional journalism in protecting the global information ecosystem.
She warned that misinformation and disinformation—particularly around climate issues—undermine public trust and delay meaningful action, calling instead for solutions-oriented journalism grounded in ethical standards and editorial independence.
A major focus of the discussions was climate justice reporting from a labour perspective.
FAJ affiliates explored how journalists can amplify the role of trade unions in defending workers’ rights, promoting decent work and advancing inclusive climate action through social dialogue.
Participants agreed that connecting climate action to everyday concerns such as employment, wages and working conditions makes the idea of just transition more relevant and understandable to the public.
FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman urged African journalists to translate complex climate policies into practical, trustworthy information for communities.
He stressed that information integrity is critical, noting that without accuracy and credibility, both journalism and effective climate action are compromised.
The workshop also addressed increasing safety risks faced by journalists covering environmental and climate issues, including physical threats, digital harassment and legal intimidation. Participants reaffirmed that protecting journalists is essential to safeguarding the public’s right to information.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Nairobi Declaration, reaffirming FAJ’s commitment to advancing climate justice, promoting a just transition and defending information integrity.
FAJ also announced plans to strengthen its climate justice programme and expand partnerships with institutions such as the United Nations, the African Union and trade unions across Africa.
Following the workshop, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla of Sierra Leone was elected President of the FAJ Climate Justice Working Group and will coordinate continental activities over the coming year.
